Virginia Ann Wilson, a devoted mother and community member, passed away peacefully on July 16, 2025, at her home in Grand Forks, North Dakota. Surrounded by her loving children, she embraced her final moments with grace, reflecting a life dedicated to family and faith.
Born on June 23, 1938, in Grand Forks, Virginia was the daughter of Maurice and Sophie Korynta. She married Merle Wilson on September 11, 1956, at St. Patrick’s Church in Minto, North Dakota. Throughout her life, Virginia was devoted to her family and her church community, where she actively participated in various roles.
Legacy of Service and Faith
Virginia’s commitment to her family was evident in her role as a domestic engineer. She took great pleasure in preparing meals, baking delicious caramel rolls, and nurturing her garden. A long-time member of St. Mary’s Church, she contributed significantly to the parish as a liturgist, sacristan, and member of the Altar Society and the Catholic Daughters of the Americas, among other roles.
She was recognized as a pillar of strength and a true woman of faith, embodying the values she held dear. Virginia is survived by her children: Greg (Lori) Wilson of Sedona, AZ; Jeffrey (Carrie) Wilson; Janell (Dennis) Johnson; and Joanne Wilson, all of Grand Forks, ND. She also leaves behind her daughter-in-law, Colleen Wilson, of Gilbert, AZ; 11 grandchildren; and 26 great-grandchildren, with two more expected this winter.
Virginia’s siblings, including Daniel (Connie) Korynta and Ernie (Roxanne) Korynta from Grand Forks, as well as Lenore (Ron) Houdek of Tolna, ND, and Jean Johnson of Tacoma, WA, also survive her, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Acknowledgments and Final Arrangements
Virginia was preceded in death by her husband, Merle Wilson; her son, Randall Wilson; and several other family members, including her brother-in-law and sister-in-law. The family expresses deep gratitude to the medical team at the Altru Cancer Center, particularly Dr. Abdul Hannan and his staff, for the compassionate care provided to Virginia during her illness.
In honor of Virginia’s wishes, memorial contributions can be made to the St. Mary’s Sanctuary Restoration Project or Sacred Heart School in East Grand Forks, Minnesota. Specific addresses for donations include 216 Belmont Road, Grand Forks, ND 58201, and 200 3rd Street NW, East Grand Forks, MN 56721.
Visitation for family and friends will take place on Sunday, July 20, 2025, from 16:00 to 18:00 at the Amundson Funeral Home Chapel in Grand Forks. A Rosary and Prayer Service will follow at 18:00. Visitation will continue at St. Mary’s Catholic Church on Monday, July 21, beginning at 10:00, with a Mass of Christian Burial scheduled for 11:00. Virginia will be laid to rest at Memorial Park South Cemetery in Grand Forks, North Dakota.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the Amundson Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Grand Forks, ensuring that Virginia’s legacy of love and service will be remembered by all who knew her.
